This is an 8* SPECIAL on Illinois.

Here's a game that I see being decided in the final moments.

Houston is now 29-5 after beating UAB by a score of 82-68 on Friday. Kyler Edwards led the way with 25 points and seven rebounds for the Cougars. On the season Houston averages 75.8 PPG, while allowing 58.9.

Illinois held on for a 54-53 win over Chattanooga to move to 23-9 on the season. Kofi Cockburn was a standout with 17 points and 13 rebounds. The Fighting Illini average 75.8 PPG, while allowing 67.6.

The Illini are 5-1 ATS in their last six as an underdog. Kofi Cockburn is also the best player on the floor today.

Yes, Illinois stumbled in the Big Ten Tournament, but it's defense has been "on point" here in this Tourney so far and I expect it to keep the Illini within fighting distance as this contest comes down the stretch once again.

And while I do think the outright win is possible, the official call will be to grab the points with ILLINOIS.

Good luck, NP